Rising Tide Fair Trade is an exotic handbag label which puts people first. Designers Virginia Dooley and Nicole Jones’ work with artisans in Bengal, India to create their collection of Eastern inspired weekender bags, totes, hobos, and other accessories.
Rising Tide Fair Trade workers turn the embroidered Kantha fabric of old saris into eye-catching accessories. The exotic materials are then trimmed with cruelty-free suede for an extra hint of luxury.
As its name suggests, Rising Tide Fair Trade produces its handbags according to fair trade standards. The workers from these poor communities earn a fair wage, equivalent to 60% more than they would make in a local factory, which in turns helps them to support their families. The artisans can also work from home, a real bonus for mothers with young children.
Rising Tide Fair Trade gives back again by donating a percentage of its profits to programs which help to educate young disadvantaged women and give them the skills they need to gain employment or start their own businesses. These organizations include Sport Revolution Girls, The Lower Eastside Girls Club of New York, and Girls for Gender Equity.
Rising Tide Fair Trade bags are available at selected boutiques and from the label’s online store.
